At Cypress Creek High School, the criminal justice program wasn’t just another elective. It was a dynamic, immersive experience that drew students from all walks of life, each of them with a unique interest in law, forensics, or social justice. What started as a small after-school club had grown into one of the most popular programs on campus, offering students hands-on experience and knowledge about a field many felt drawn to but knew little about.
Mr. Hamilton, a former detective turned teacher, ran the program. His arrival at Cypress Creek had been unexpected but game-changing. Rumor had it that he left the force after solving a major case that left a lasting mark on him. Now, he spent his days teaching teenagers, showing them the ropes in ways most teachers never could. He was respected, even by those who had never taken his class. There was something about the way he told stories, the passion in his voice, that made students believe they could make a difference, even in their own community.
Each week, Mr. Hamilton transformed his classroom into a real-world crime scene. He covered cases in the news, giving the students a chance to discuss different viewpoints and ethical dilemmas, to look at each scenario from the perspective of the prosecutor, the defense attorney, and the police. And then there were the simulations. Mr. Hamilton was known for his dedication to making them as realistic as possible.
Once a year he would hold a mock trial. In this trial he would have students “become” attorneys and lawyers. He made his own cases for each year, making it extra special for the kids
